Messi Reveals He Warned Luis Enrique About PSG Star Before Final: “I Told Him to Drop That Player”

In a stunning post-match revelation, Lionel Messi has claimed that he warned Paris Saint-Germain manager Luis Enrique to bench a specific player ahead of their FIFA Club World Cup final against Chelsea — advice that was ignored, and which Messi believes led directly to PSG’s crushing 3-0 defeat.

The former PSG star, who now plays for Inter Miami, did not hold back when speaking to reporters after the final:

“I told Luis Enrique to drop him before the match, but he didn’t listen…”

Although Messi stopped short of publicly naming the player in his initial comment, inside sources close to the Argentine confirm he was referring to a defensive starter who has faced internal criticism in recent weeks for his lack of discipline and poor decision-making under pressure.

❌ The Ignored Warning

Messi’s warning, reportedly delivered through private communication with PSG staff just days before the final, was based on his own experience playing alongside the unnamed individual. He believed the player’s inclusion in the lineup would be a tactical liability — especially against Chelsea’s high-pressing attack.

“I played with him. I know what he does under pressure. I warned them — but they took the risk,” Messi reportedly told close friends.

Luis Enrique, however, opted to maintain his trust in the regular starter, a decision that now draws criticism following the humiliating loss.

💥 A Costly Mistake

Chelsea capitalized early and often during the final, exposing PSG’s defensive frailties. The unnamed player — now speculated by fans and analysts alike — was directly involved in at least one of the goals conceded.
Critics are now questioning not only Enrique’s tactical decisions but also the overall unity and awareness within the PSG camp.

Football analyst Thierry Marchand commented:
“When someone like Messi gives you a warning based on personal experience, you take it seriously. PSG ignored that — and paid the price.”

⚠️ PSG’s Response and Fan Reactions

PSG has yet to issue a statement responding to Messi’s comments, though sources within the club admit there is now internal pressure to re-evaluate the squad ahead of next season.
On social media, fans have launched heated debates trying to uncover the identity of the player Messi referred to — with several names trending online.

Meanwhile, Chelsea celebrated their historic first FIFA Club World Cup title, while PSG were once again left to reflect on missed opportunities and ignored warnings.

👀 Messi’s Final Word?

When asked if he felt vindicated after PSG’s defeat, Messi simply replied:

“I said what I had to say. They made their choice.”

It’s yet another dramatic chapter in Messi’s complicated relationship with his former club — and a reminder that even off the pitch, his footballing instincts still carry weight.